Monday, August 18, 2008

New Thoughts

Hey bloggers,

Enjoying your comments and your flow...keep it up! I'm starting a new post here to make it easier for you to navigate through the comments page...

Thanks for your prayers.

Bish

60 comments:

tracy said...

Iris keep laughing-everything is gonna be allright-Promise

Anonymous said...

Keep hope alive!

Anonymous said...

Lord, we wait on You to reveal to the one we call Bishop, we wait...

NTL

word ver...q(powr)w

peacemaker said...

More food for thought...

It’s important that we remind ourselves…
…that everything we do…yes, EVERYTHING, serves a purpose and ultimately, the highest good…if we choose to perceive it in that light.
For example: instead of mundane, routine, and even dreaded, what if we chose to see paying our bills as an important part of the great cycle of giving and receiving? Kind of a collective “paying it forward”.
Just think about it; when we send our tangible resources to those whom we are obligated, the utility companies, insurance company, banks, or where ever, people all around the globe are touched in some way by your contribution to the flow of commerce.
Because of your “giving”, people who are employed by or receive services from, the companies you help support, perhaps looking for a miracle in their own lives, are paid, given raises, bonuses, promotions, rebates, or countless other ways that help push them ahead.
So, when the time rolls around for the checks to be written, instead of feeling depleted, feel enriched and empowered. Feel the satisfaction of being a blessing to someone you don’t know or probably will never meet. You in turn will be blessed as well and will never be without. You know why? Because you too are part of the same divine cycle.

Peace and Blessings,
PM

Anonymous said...

Love it, PM!

Anonymous said...

PM,

Thank you. You have made me aware.
Today when I give the cashier my money for the best sausage and egg biscuit with grape jelly, that I ever tasted, from a little hole in the wall near I-20 in Lithonia, I now realize that I will be doing more than just paying for my biscuit, I will be spreading the love.

Thanx for the food, for thought.

NTL

Anonymous said...

Where are all the insomniacs when you need 'em?

Anonymous said...

Here's One....

Anonymous said...

Psalms 4 (The Message)

A David Psalm

1 When I call, give me answers. God, take my side! Once, in a tight place, you gave me room;
Now I'm in trouble again: grace me! hear me!

2 You rabble—how long do I put up with your scorn?
How long will you lust after lies?
How long will you live crazed by illusion?

3 Look at this: look
Who got picked by God!
He listens the split second I call to him.

4-5 Complain if you must, but don't lash out.
Keep your mouth shut, and let your heart do the talking.
Build your case before God and wait for his verdict.

6-7 Why is everyone hungry for more? "More, more," they say.
"More, more."
I have God's more-than-enough,
More joy in one ordinary day

7-8 Than they get in all their shopping sprees.
At day's end I'm ready for sound sleep,
For you, God, have put my life back together.

Anonymous said...

Eden's Bridge

"And The Way Goes On"

The wanderers and the pilgrims
Sought to share Your precious Word
And to travel in Your footsteps
Was their purpose and their goal

But the journey lies beyond the heart
In a deeper faith
And the road goes on into the light
As we seek Your face

And the way goes on
Across the oceans
Through the deep woods and the desert
And the way goes on
In the seeking
Of my spirit into tomorrow

Alone inside my empty cell
I search for You in the silence
A road to life art thou O Lord
And at journey's end lies my dwelling

"I Will Change Your Name"

I will change, will change your name
I will change, will change your name

I will change your name
You shall no longer be called
Wounded, outcast, lonely or afraid

I will change your name
Your new name shall be
Confidence, joyfulness, overcoming one
Faithfulness, friend of God
One who seeks My face

www.last.fm

Sweepea said...

I'll be traveling tomorrow to a meeting in Florida; please keep me in your prayers - back Saturday. I ain't afraid of no weather, but I have a broken arm in a sling. (I'm feeling much better!) I expect favor and safety, a productive and fun time and a safe return. Amen? AMEN!

Anonymous said...

PM,

That thought really slammed it through the hoop and that ovation comes from one who is not even a b-ball fan.

It has been a conscious thought of mine for so long that it is simply habit now to flow with that kind of energy. I love the thought of giving to the church in ways that improve my testimony of real faith in a real God.

I used to write checks as a testimony to the banker of my love for God but now use an amercan express card because it reaches the eyes of more people plus I get frequent flyer miles that way. I have often wondered at what comments were made when people see the transaction contributing to a business called Church in the Now.
I wonder if any of them have ever checked us out because of seeing that connection.

It goes without saying that I see your economy and raise you a kingdom but I know that I can't truly lay claim to one upmanship because of your statement about serving...the highest good. As the flow continues in either sphere we are supporting others.

It is my hope to one day place a remarkably large offering in the system for their perusal, one that really makes heads turn and tongues wag. I don't even care if someone calls me a pharisee for giving in such an open way. After all we are not giving to beggars but giving to the Highest Good.

A thought that is provoked in me recently is who do I say that I am. I've actually thought about this alot.

For those that have known me a long time, they would tell you that I have teetered and tottered between being self confident and self effacing. Now that I am much older it seems to me that battle is still present in me so perhaps it is better to embrace the both of them for the Highest Good.

It can not go without saying that there has been some ballance obtained in my life but it is important to me that the major credit for that be given to what has come to me through seeking God.

Holy Ghost is the most important force in any of our lives. In those moments when I have over asserted my confidence and overstepped my perception of limits and in those moments where I have thought my limits to be confined to the point of rendering me insignificant it has been by crying out for mercy and grace in Jesus name that I was saved; every time!

So who is it I say that I am?

I am one who has had the Am added to I.

JB

Anonymous said...

Did Adam have a belly button?

G8TRGRL said...

PM... WOW! Your food for thought fills my belly this morning- thank you, so yummy!

Traveling mercies for my parents, please. They cut their visit short to head back home to Florida... it now seems that they will arrive right as the storm arrives on the east coast. Pls. pray for me in this as well-- I need the peace that passes understanding with them...

ttfn

Anonymous said...

ANON....
MUD GOTA UMBILICAL CORD ?

Anonymous said...

I've been part of Egyptian society for more than three years now. That's three years that I've witnessed the blessings of the holy month of Ramadan. One of the five pillars of Islam is charity, and it is most evident during this time (which will be upon us once again in two weeks). I've seen men in suits unloading bread and fruits from their BMWs and handing it out to tramps in the park, taxi drivers rambling through the shantytowns and passing out loaves, and sidewalk vendors tossing bananas into passing cars on the crowded downtown streets. Last Ramadan, around the time of iftar (breaking the fast), a young boy on the street gave me two peaches, a holiday gift that reminded me of home. All of this, I feel, was done in the true spirit of charity, when givers expect nothing in return.

I muse at your interpretation of giving, PM. It strikes me as self-righteous capitalist apology. When you receive a service, you pay. This is simple remuneration; anything less would be criminal. Paying the bills is a duty far less than "paying it forward"; it's "paying it back". As you said, we are obligated. When you do so, you give what you take. What about giving without taking?

And to whom should we give? Instead of stuffing the pockets of fat cats who feed on our consumption of their products, tangible or spiritual (JB), shouldn't we be giving to those who can't feed themselves?

I myself am not above reproach on this matter, so I'm interested to read what you all have to say.

Salaam,

Abraham

DoubleBack Alley said...

NTL,

Hole in the wall? Geez, I hope the owner doesn't blog here.

veri word-xxcmi
dos equis cerveza mas inmediatamente

Ain't God Good?

tracy said...

C'Mon DBA it's only 10 AM! Geez, if I didn't know better.............

G8TRGRL said...

RE: PM/Abraham blog: Perhaps changing the perception of how our obligations are met will stir up that deeper sense of the charity you speak of? We all stand to change the way we see things. Sure, in our happy, secure, little blog world, everything's hunky-dory when we all know good and well that there is so much work to be done for others and for each other.

We can start in our own church by all those who were sitting on Sunday when asked where in the ministry of CITN they serve - get off their hind quarters and do what is expected. (which I only knew of by word of mouth because i was serving during service.) Getting really tired of all the takers. Bish, I can't imagine the frustration you feel if I am this way as but a spoke in the wheel. Definitely, God bless you.

tracy said...

I digress DBA-barley=cereal= breakfast food

DoubleBack Alley said...

Abraham,

Any interpretation of giving is subject to the giver. In today's economy, one should not assume that just because it is owed, it will be paid by the debtor.

I will not pretend to know what someone else thinks, but when terms like "Fat Cat" and "self righteous capitalist" are used to describe an act or person, then there is no peace there. Furthermore, peace is not being sought. Why not build upon it and improve the thought or the act and refrain from tearing down?

It appears to me that you make the argument that those who have not always make. It's yours and I want it. You earned it and I deserve it.

Peace cannot be accomplished until the giver understands that reciprocity is not charity. It is the universal way and the person to whom an act or donation is given completes the cycle by reciprocating and paying it forward.

Giving, just to give, is pity. The universe has no means of giving without receiving.

Ain't God Good?

Anonymous said...

DBA,
Hole in the wall is a southern thing meaning:"very special place"

NTL

PS- And yes the owner blogs here.
PSS- It's 10:00 somewhere.

G8TRGRL said...

-from an email I received... somethin' more to chew on...

There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and noticed she had only three hairs on her head. 'Well,' she said, 'I think I'll braid my hair today.' So she did and she had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. 'H-M-M,' she said,'I think I'll part my hair down the middle today.' So she did and she had a grand day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head. 'Well,' she said, 'today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail.' So she did, and she had a fun, fun day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head. 'YEA!' she exclaimed.' I don't have to fix my hair today!'

Attitude is everything.

Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly.......Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...

DoubleBack Alley said...

NTL,

My bad bro (sis?). Just don't want no hurt feelings. Southern semantics are not my strong suit.

Peace

Ain't God Good?

Anonymous said...

DBA,
Is all good. I'm from MN myself, and...

NTL

Lisa said...

PM thank you for that word. My family has felt so overwelmed with the bills, pay cuts and trying to pay the ransome and travel expenses to adopt our child. The call to be parents to children with medical needs is a joy but an expensive venture. God is Awsome and will provide the way. Your words relieved the feeling of being overwelmed with the everyday expense and the debt incured taking care of our children and their needs. We want to do so much more and in the natural well the natural says we were at our limit with our 1st child home from China. Knowing my use of the dsl is making a way for someone else to feed their family and possibly help an orphan makes the idea of paying my bills less of a burden!
The idea of Charity for Ramadan is wonderful. The problem is who feeds these people when the month is over? Shouldn't we be giving a hand up instead? Shouldn't we see what the need really is and help 1 person or 1 family instead of tossing bread into the crowd? My experiences may be just with orphanages in China but I have seen 1st hand how 1 person can change the world. 1 adopted mom and dad who seen the need and took a step out in faith and changed the lives of thousands of children. I believe we all give without expecting anything in return. I also believe that when you give you do recieve even if you are giving money owed for services recieved. It is a natural law. The idea of paying your bills cheerfully knowing you are contributing to society is an great idea. It changes the energy and the feelings behind something most dread doing! We do live in a world of excesses while others have nothing. I for 1 am doing what I can to change this world. I truly believe everyone here is a world changer. We are all just working at different parts of the world. Each part is just as vital to the big plan as the other. We have been ridiculed and put down for what we are called to do for the kingdom and I remind myself everyday that they just don't understand our calling. It reminds me to be open minded to the path and calling of my fellow brothers and sisters. I may not have the eyes to see it but it is not anyless real.

Anonymous said...

My momma said that them folks that don't put their peanuts down in their co-colas was probly yankees.

She also said it wasn't bad that they didnt, but just that they have diffrent ways, yankee ways to be exact.

I guess we all are eatin' peanuts an drikin' co-colas, but I couldn't even imagine eatin' peanuts out the bag, and not in with my co-cola.

Some folks just do things a little diffrent.

DoubleBack Alley said...

Tracey

What??

Here's assuming that you know better.

Ain't God Good?

Anonymous said...

To Abraham from JB,

I've just completed reading 'Three Cups of Tea'. You may be familiar with this work about a man named Greg Mortenson from the U.S. who has made a remarkable difference in the world and especially for those who are suffering under poor conditions in Pakistan. This man does not claim any alliegence to any religious order and yet if the story told by the writer is true, he is more like Christ than ninty nine percent of Christians I know including me.

I agree that we should be giving to those who can't feed themselves. I feel like much of that is accomplished in the culture of the U.S. No matter what other problems we may have here, the poor are pretty well taken care of and as for those who can't feed themselves at all, if they slip through the cracks in this country it is almost unheard of.

Yes we as a blessed nation should be doing more for the whole world and it seems to me that we are doing some good there, although not nearly as much as we should be.

In 1996 I fell in love with the people of the high Andes in Bolivia when my son and I journied there for two weeks with a ligitimate world missionary who has worked in many of the Islamic nations. When reading Three Cups of Tea, I could see the faces of the children from memory of those I saw in Alto Plano just above LaPaz. This was at about eleven thousand feet and we visited another settlement near Lake Titicaca at around thirteen thousand feet. It made the book very real to me.

These people seemed unusally rich to me as did those in the book when it comes to some of the most important aspects of internal peace. I cherish education and feel there has been more peace brought to the world through that medium than by all the religions combined but I also wonder about the ballance between internal peace that is associated with the bliss of innocense and the troubled soul that is often associated with higher education. There is an important role for religion to play here and that is to keep us inspired to maintain a pursuit of God.

The problem with religions of the past is that they have attempted to rule the world instead of feeding the needs of the human soul. There is much beauty to behold in both knowledge and the innocense of children. When those who are truly in touch with Holy Spirit lead correctly the people of their charge, that beauty is easier to see and the blending of the two works to build our faith in the ability of humanity to achieve world peace is more concievable.

The food for thought offered by PM this morning nourished a proven concept about giving for me. Yes, there is waste in giving and trusting others to carry that gift to its greatest effect but there is also much evidence in seeing what the flow of commerce has accomplished toward the highest good among the people of the U.S.

Abraham, I fully believe that we are going to get it together, all of us concerning what can be and will be done for the highest good of all who walk the earth. That will not come from government or religion or any other form of what one particular group of people think is best for everyone else but it will happen by first being at peace with ourself and then making our best effort to pay it forward one step at a time until the city on the hill of the whole world is fully established.

I love your conversation on these matters. Please continue and peace to all of your house.

JB

Anonymous said...

What the h is a yarmotla (veri word)

Lise said...

Well, well, well...
So nice to know that I'm not the only one who stirs the pot ;O
Interesting thoughts, gang. But I'm not touching it!
... :) ... <-<-<- mouth closed

tracy said...

Hmmmmm I hear ya, how's the weather there Elle? And DBA ya know what they say bout assuming--

DoubleBack Alley said...

Tracy,

You make an ass of Uma Thurman?

tracy said...

DBA you are just plain old wrong- and d@#$ if you don't remind me of somebody. Someone I know and love for his sharp wit, so that is a compliment (unless you keep messing with me)

Lise said...

HEY, TRACE!

The weather is HOT... bloody, stinkin' hot, but it IS August in SC... go figure ;P

Can't seem to get my house projects done. One project leads to another, and another and another. And I'm just whacked enough to try to work on several at once instead of finishing one and moving to the next. AAARRRRGGHHHH!!!

Been on the very hot deck doing some painting of misc. things. So my argumentative brain (perhaps I should say debate-inclined... sounds more friendly) is fried. And it's currently happy not to have any significant static passing through. So, Elle can't come out and play in the depths of intelligence today!

HAPPY, HAPPY, JOY, JOY
HAPPY, HAPPY, JOY, JOY

Have a great evening, everyone!

Anonymous said...

Dear Bishop and Pastor Debye,
Loved the video and love you both. Joining you for some quiet time and deep soul searching. Was emailed this today and this is where I plan to escape tonight from the craziness....It is beautiful!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoxopsRSfdU

Praying a gentle refreshing and healing rain from the Holy Spirit on you both and on the beautiful bloggers and blurkers. God bless every one!!!

P.S. Happy upcoming birthday Pastor Debye :-)

Overcomer

Anonymous said...

Dear Bishop and Pastor Debye,
Loved the wedding video and love you both. I am short on words today, but wanted you to know that I appreciate all that you pour out into your sheep at CTIN and abroad. Rest now and let God pour back into you!!!

I am joining you for some quiet time with God. Was emailed this youtube link "Here I am to Worship" today and this is where I plan to escape tonight from the craziness....It is beautiful!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoxopsRSfdU

Praying a gentle refreshing and healing rain from the Holy Spirit on you both and on the beautiful bloggers and blurkers. God bless every one!!!

P.S. Happy upcoming birthday Pastor Debye :-)

Overcomer

Anonymous said...

I have been trying to figure out what to say or do about the negative misconceptions or connotations that I have been hearing lately about CITN. I keep coming back to one thing….we need more focus on those who are members of CITN. I am not saying that we don’t have ways of connecting or helping out members. However, there are always ways to improve. In times of hardship folks like to know that they can count on their church to support them in some way shape or form. I am not one to make a statement like that without having suggestions to at least think about.

Many folks at CITN come from smaller churches and appreciated many of the things that happen at a smaller church. I think that there is a way to offer some of the small church feel in a larger setting that would provide folks with the support and connection that they are looking for.

Let’s start with giving to the Church. In my heart of hearts I think that everyone would love to give and give more if they could. However, many people rob Peter to pay Paul each month and are head over heels in debt. There are many people who were never educated on how to control their finances and many more that need help in getting out of debt and how to properly invest. Dave Ramsey offers a 13 week course specifically designed for churches and their congregations. I think that this would be a great thing to offer to the people of the church. To check it out go to: http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/church/.

I love my care group leaders and they have done everything that they can to foster the relationships within our care group. They have scheduled Christmas parties, luncheons, going out events, you name it and only a handful participate. So how can you get people connected when they don’t want or don’t have time to? Let’s try something different. How about on the 1st Wed of the month there be a Spaghetti dinner offered before service from 5:30 to 7:00. The cost could be $5 per person with a max of $20 per family with signups and payment due a week before. That would allow folks to know how many to plan for. This would give folks a break with not having to cook dinner and also provide another way for folks to connect and it is something that they are use to seeing in a smaller church setting. Heck the youth could organize this and also use it as a fundraiser.

I love community outreach and I think that we have fantastic programs in place. However, I think that we also should find ways to outreach to those who are members of CITN. With the holidays coming up I am preparing to select my Angel Tree Angel as I do each year. However, it occurred to me that there may be members of our church who can not provide Christmas for their kids this year. Why not have an Angel Tree of sorts for those who are in need within our own walls? I would suggest that if this were something that could be done to keep members info confidential as not to embarrass them, but I do think that we should look at those that we sit next to each week and help them out if we can.

Which leads me to my next suggestion….bring back the Covenant Exchange! That was a brilliant idea and it was so awesome to see how God chose the winners each week. What a great way to give back to those who are ITB. I for one felt connected and was thrilled each week for those who won. I also loved hearing the follow up stories that confirmed that God was indeed selecting the ticket each week.

I have heard a lot of rumbling about the music. I will say that I agree with some comments and disagree with others. I have a hard time standing for 30-45 minutes. So for me it does run a little long. I do like some of the songs but incorporating some of the older hymns really puts some pow into the punch. What happen to some of the songs that we use to sing? I loved the Beatles song that was converted. Where has the tap dancer been? What about the guy who reads the poems? What about his hands and the great sign language things that they have presented? I would just like to see a variety of songs and presentations each week. After all if someone is not connecting with the music, they may get connected through the reading of a poem, tap dance, or other type of presentation.

Now this past week it was mentioned that CITN was looking at ways to cut the budget just like we all are. Here is a suggestion and a suggestion only. When the café started it was great. Folks would come early and hang out and talk. Then the main table in the café was converted into a place where you fix your coffee. I think that this took away from the point of the café and that was to get people to gather together. Not to be to critical but the last few times I have purchased a muffin I ended up throwing over half of it away because it was so dry that you couldn’t eat it and in my opinion the coffee was always to strong and not all that good….again don’t take my comments as critical it is just my experience. My suggestion is simple. Open the café as a place to come and visit and bring in your own food and beverages. You can have volunteers there to open, clean and close it up each week. This would also free up tables and counter space for people to sit down and relax.

My final suggestion for the evening……the good ole Homecoming. Why not have a Homecoming event each year during the Church’s anniversary. Everyone could bring in their dishes, old members could be invited back, and everyone could fellowship on the grounds. I don’t know but I always had fun at these things and there was always a great turn out.

Oh well I have gone on far to long……but wanted to get a few things out in the open for discussion. I love CITN and want to see it succeed and not have to worry about things.

Erik said...

The cycle of connection.

Every time we connect, we exchange. We even exchange when no ‘conscious’ connection is made, so we are pretty much exchanging all the time. When we take part in the all encompassing economy of life, the cycle, by producing, consuming, reaping, preparing, planting, gathering , funding, buying or selling, giving and receiving, we enhance the whole. Rain falls, nourishes, the ground and physical objects have it, water evaporates, the air has it. Every exchange is balanced, the universe operates that way. I may not comprehend, or immediately experience the balance in each exchange, or connection, that does not change its existence.

If I give money, product, effort, or attention I receive something tangible and/or intangible back. I may give a loaf of bread, and I receive something, possibly joy, peace, an opening for another connection I am not even aware of in my future, because my spirit is open to giving that loaf of bread. I am still part of the ‘wholistic’ economy we exist in of exchange, connection. I but a biscuit, I exchange a monetary unit, the biscuit nourishes me and goes back into the wholistic economy in several ways, as does the monetary unit I exchanged. I connected with every person involved in the biscuit and how that monetary unit got into my possession. And every person going forward that connects from that exchange in every direction has benefited.

US Dollar and an Egyptian Pound are tools, mediums of exchange. The more hands that touch either, (either physically or electronically), the better off we are. Same with what goes into a loaf of bread or a peach. All are parts of exchange. There is no connection in itself that is superior to another. The intentions, expectations, hopes of those in an exchange are what bring about the experience of peace, joy, fear, etc. The energy, intention, of the connection, are the foundation of the fruit produced. There are many who have peace or lack of it in any exchange, connection. It is from their hopes, intentions, expectations, love that is validated in the connection.

A bill, biscuit, loaf, fruit, a kiss, a smile, immediate physical manifestation in a focused area, or like a vitamin that nourishes generally, all are parts of the world that God creates, and we enjoy.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous - tell mama even Yankees put peanuts in their pop. My dad always put peanuts in his pop.
YUM

Anonymous - about the spaghetti dinner, that's a good idea but I don't believe we have a place to have it.
Now you can get something to eat at the church cafe.
If you have teens they can buy good junk food such as pizza, chicken nuggets & fried cheese sticks just to name a few at the Mix on Wed night. I'm sure KITN has junk food also.
Maybe one day we'll have a place where families can come sit together and fellowship with other church members but for now lets get what need taken care of done. Who knows what tomorrow brings.


Here's something cool I got in an e-mail.

4 Boyfriends - This is Deep

Once upon a time, there was this girl who had four boyfriends.

She loved the 4th boyfriend the most and adored him with rich robes and treated
him to the finest of delicacies. She gave him nothing but the best.

She also loved the 3rd boyfriend very much and was always showing him off to
neighboring kingdoms. However, she feared that one day he would leave her for
another.

She also loved her 2nd boyfriend. He was her confidant and was always kind,
considerate and patient with her... Whenever this girl faced a problem, she
could confide in him, and he would help her get through the difficult times.

The girls 1st boyfriend was a very loyal partner and had made great
contributions in maintaining her wealth and kingdom. However, she did not love
the first boyfriend. Although he loved her deeply, she hardly took notice of
him.

One day, the girl fell ill and she knew her time was short. She thought of her
luxurious life and wondered, I now have four boyfriends with me, but when I die,
I'll be all alone.'

Thus, she asked the 4th boyfriend, I loved you the most, endowed you with the
finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will
you follow me and keep me company?'

'No way!' replied the 4th boyfriend, and he walked away without another
word.

His answer cut like a sharp knife right into her heart.

The sad girl then asked the 3rd boyfriend, 'I loved you all my life. Now
that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'

'No!' replied the 3rd boyfriend. 'Life is too good! When you die,
I'm going to marry someone else!'

Her heart sank and turned cold.

She then asked the 2nd boyfriend, 'I have always turned to you for help and
you've always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me and keep me
company?'

'I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!' replied the 2nd
boyfriend. 'At the very most, I can only walk with you to your grave.'

His answer struck her like a bolt of lightning, and the girl was devastated.

Then a voice called out: 'I'll go with you. I'll follow you no
matter where you go.'

The girl looked up, and there was her 1st boyfriend. He was very skinny as he
suffered from malnutrition and neglect.

Greatly grieved, the girl said, 'I should have taken much better care of
you when I had the chance!

In truth, you have 4 boyfriends in your lives:

Your 4th boyfriend is your body. No matter how much time and effort you lavish
in making it look good; it will leave you when you die.

Your 3rd boyfriend is your possessions, status and wealth. When you die, it
will all go to others.

Your 2nd boyfriend is your family and friends. No matter how much they have
been there for you, the furthest they can stay by you is up to the grave.

And your 1st boyfriend is your Soul. Often neglected in pursuit of wealth,
power and pleasures of the world.

However, your Soul is the only thing that will follow you where ever you go.
Cultivate, strengthen and cherish it now, for it is the only part of you that
will follow you to the throne of God and continue with you throughout Eternity.

Thought for the day : Remember, when the world pushes you to your knees,
you're in the perfect position to pray.

Son of Zadok said...

"Preach the Gospel always, sometimes....use....words" - St. Francis of Assisi

What does the world need to hear now? If we have revelation concerning this true evangel, this real good news, we should be living our lives in new expressions of love and life and our words and evocations should be full of the new, which awaken the curiosity of the individual to the gift of our glorious gospel.

"Jesus loves you."
"You must be born again/saved "
"The wages of sin is death"
"What would Jesus do?"

UGGGggghhh!! For many it's like asking them to come closer so you can stick your finger down their throat!

That doesn't mean they are not true and pertinent sentiments, but what is God saying now, to this generation? If we look in the Bible, salvation consciousness was arrived at by many different means for many different people. So what are the words to this new age? What will ignite the curiosity in the heart and campaign with the Spirit in the lives of those we encounter each day? We've been prophesied over that we will speak new things, God is tired of hearing the same old things. May our revelation "truth & doctrine" help resonate within us the call of the Master into this world. Hearing what the Spirit is saying. Deep calling unto deep.

What is the Spirit saying to you?

HEY YOU BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE!!!!!!!

GOD'S NOT MAD YOU!!!!!!!!

HE HOLDS NO SIN AGAINST YOU, AND HAS CAST THEM AS FAR FROM YOU AS THE EAST IS FROM THE WEST!!!!!!

HELL IS A PAGAN MYTH!!!!!!

GOD IS RECONCILING ALL THINGS UNTO HIMSELF!!!!!!!!

IT IS FINISHED!!!!!

CHRIST LIVES INSIDE OF YOU!!!!!!!

In giving God the glory in all things, we ask you Lord....

What are you saying to us?

Will everyone hear?
No.
But those who the Spirit is calling will.

I know I'm talking about things New School and this song is SO Old School, but it was in my head..and gave me a smile and I think it says something as to how the church has appeared in times past and what we are becoming.

Cameo - Word Up

Dah pretty ladies around the world
Got a weird thing to show you,
So tell all the boys and girls.
Tell your brother, your sister
And mama too, cause they’re
About to go down
And you’ll know just what to do.

Wave your hands in the air
Like you don’t care, glide by
The People as they start to look and stare.
Do you dance, do your dance quick
Mama, come on baby, tell me what’s
The Word, ah – word up,
Everybody say when you hear the call
You got to get it underway,
Word up, it’s the code word,
No matter where you say it,
You’ll know that you’ll be heard.

Now all you sucker. D.J.’s
Who think you’re fly
There’s got to be a reason
And we know the reason why.
And act real cool
But you got to realize
That you’re acting like fools.
If there’s music we can use it
We need to dance.
We don’t have that time
For psychological romance
No romance
No romance
No romance for me mama
Come on baby tell me what’s the word.
Ah – word up,
Everybody say when you hear the call
You got to get it underway.

Dial “L” for low...
Come on, all you people say...
Word up – word up


Give Us Your Word Lord...

Anonymous said...

tracy,
And just whom might that be that DBA reminds you of? Enquiring minds want to know1

word ver ...metwn...

Anonymous said...

wow anon 646 that was the most depressing thing i've ever heard..sorry you have to ''stand'' for the music'' presentation'' (a.k.a GODS PRESENCE)..anyway..not to be too critical of your critique..but it is just my expirience..get in the now.

p.s. what's your name?
or do you disagree with that too?

Bubba

Son of Zadok said...

I think if you want to praise standing up; praise standing up. If you want to praise sitting down; praise sitting down. Kneel if you want to kneel. Bow if you should bow. If your so blessed to lay on your face, then by all means lay on your face. Dance with all your heart or meditate with it all as well. But whatever you do, do it unto the Lord.

Anonymous said...

And the manna's no good, either. At least we had graves in Epypt!

peacemaker said...

Abraham,
Opposing viewpoints and constructive debate are healthy ingredients to lively dialogue. If one doesn’t see eye to eye with someone on a given idea or even chooses to disagree, an alternative viewpoint should be offered. I, too, am not above reproach. Your comment, however, did not. Frankly, your arrogance and lack of depth surprised me.

Until now, I have enjoyed your postings. I may not have always embraced your worldview, but have always found your ideas interesting, engaging, and sometime, eye opening. This one, however, was different. When you chose to use negative adjectives to describe me and my ideas, you made it personal.
Calling me a "self-righteous, capitalistic, apologist, without knowing me or discerning my heart in by writing, is like me, without discernment, calling you a bleeding heart, extreme left wing, socialist by your written worldview. Its judgment in it's purest form. The antithesis of peace and unity.
If I irritated your sensibilities, I apologize, that was not my intent. My intent was, however, to help in some small way, change a mindset and perception. By the other responses, evidently, I was successful. That is what really matters to me. Not who is right or wrong.

My brother, I wish no less than peace, joy, and health to you and your beautiful wife. May your home be a sanctuary where charity is the foundation. May all those eager to learn, receive from you ,and may you see the fruits of the positive influence and wisdom you impart borne in your students. I’m sure you do a great work in that region of our beautiful world.

PM.

Anonymous said...

Sounds to me like a whole bunch of us, need to find some back porch out in the country, set on a porch swing, listen to the crickets, and the whipporwills, pour a pack of salted peanuts into a co-cola, and chill out.

I understand dialogging, but button pushing will only make donald want to take his belt off, and get some hearts right.

I will close with this. To all of
you on this blog: I love, and I need you. P-E-A-C-E O-U-T

Nothing to lose!

tracy said...

PM Bravo- Anon @ 8:35 I hope I misunderstood. Other Anon concerning DBA- I can't unveil my friend the twin for his dance card stays full and if you knew who he was let's just say he'd be invited to all the parties and would have to turn you down because he is VERY busy. When DBA talks I feel like David and I are sitting on my back deck with our friend and PM revelating(Is that a word?) To the other anon-wow that is a pretty weighty list of complaints-perception my friend. Fortunately we do not do church as usual, thank God. CITN will grow by the Spirit and my opinion is right now we just can't see it because we are growing from the inside out. GTRgirl excellent story and same to Laura-thank you both. Kumba ya ya'll

Iris said...

What the world needs now... is LOVE sweet LOVE....

I'm with you Elle....

PEACE...
SHANTI...

Iris
WOOOO... HOOOO... my shortest blog ever... there are still miracles...LOL

Lise said...

I hear ya, NTL! I'm thinking Donald needs to take his belt off NOW, before this goes any further ;}

Bish... oh, Bish... you out there?

PS: HEY, IRIS!

Anonymous said...

Gee PM,

I didn't see Abraham's blog as being that personal until I reread it.

Earlier I just thought DBA was taking exception to being called a fat cat because he probably was one. (haha that was a joke son, I tell ya a joke).

Yea his language was a little rough but I've had worse and given worse. I did think it to be interesting that he said he was not above reproach here too.

I've been doing a lot of reading lately. Almost finished with 'The Audacity of Hope' by Senator Obama. I don't agree with all his views but do think it would be nice to have a literate president for a change.

Actually that book is filled with good information for anyone interested in current politics. I am not to interested in politics but do find much of the information in his book to be enlightening. It really is a good book for either a liberal or conservative providing they are readers.

I don't consider myself to be leftist or right wing and find that my views are somewhere between being left of Obama and right of McSame.

Hope I didn't hurt anybody's feelings. If I did you can't be hatin me cause that ain't christian like and besides God is good anyway.

JB

PS, have a happy anniversary get away Bish and P Debye.

Donald said...

You know what to say NTL!
Y'all better not make me have to come over there!
Anon @ 9:48 what you said reminded me of a very sad event that happened years ago. My Aunt Hope had been admitted to the hospital and was not expected to live. All the family was called in and we had to make a decision as to whether or not to take her off life support.
As the doctor went around the room asking each family member what their decision was, they all callously said that they would have the support turned off.
I was the last one in the room to be asked and I always cared for her more than any of the other relatives, so my response was that I wanted to "Keep Hope Alive".
I'm sorry folks, that never really happened, I just thought we needed a fresh start here.

Erik said...

Hi Anon 835, re manna and graves.

Maybe it was tongue in cheek, I didn't really follow. Is it worth explaining, or better left as is? Anyway, I am sure whatever it is that you meant to say is blessed.

Anonymous said...

To Bubba:
Some folks can not stand for the entire time due to medical conditions and actually connect with the Spirit through various forms of worship such as poetry, tap dancing etc. In focusing on that one comment you missed the entire point of the post....which was to find new ways to connect and also provide services to the membership at CITN.
How can we come together as one if we can not provide constructive feedback or honest thoughts? Bishop has always stated that we are married when we become members of the Church. There are difficult converstations that take place during a marriage but the successful ones find ways to communicate even when discussing the most sensitive topics. I for one am saddened as I do not feel that folks feel comfortable expressing their concerns unless it is a positive one. How can you find ways to improve if you don't know what is bugging people?

Anonymous said...

Erik, it was an attempted sarcastic response to previous murmuring.

Son of Zadok said...

Iron sharpens Iron.

Working out the truth in love.

I find all of today's posts good. Thought is good. Food for thought. Praise God that we can speak our minds in love and not take offense. May we not even notice an offense.
We hear each other here. Not just what we say but what we mean. God is opening our ears to hear and eyes to see.

And the banner over us is LOVE!

MUUAHH ALL! Big Godly Kisses!!!

Son of Zadok said...

Love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love.
There's nothing you can do that can't be done.
Nothing you can sing that can't be sung.
Nothing you can say but you can learn how to play the game
It's easy.
There's nothing you can make that can't be made.
No one you can save that can't be saved.
Nothing you can do but you can learn how to be in time
It's easy.
All you need is love, all you need is love,
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.
Love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love.
All you need is love, all you need is love,
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.
There's nothing you can know that isn't known.
Nothing you can see that isn't shown.
Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be.
It's easy.
All you need is love, all you need is love,
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.
All you need is love (all together now)
All you need is love (everybody)
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.

youtube.com/watch?v=rLxTpsIVzzo

Erik said...

Hi Anon 1006 PM ,

Your suggestions are what you think add value. That is always valid. Maybe Bubba was a little on edge today. Nevertheless, none of your ideas are out of line. Whether they can be implemented or are best to be, I do not know. Although, I am always up for good food. So, I guess I am missing stuff today, did not really get the junk food comments later, maybe it is just a blond day for me. I have had 1 or 2 in my life :).

You are right, we are all here because we have been called, responded to our soulmate, and come. We all have different focuses, and they all mix. Absolutely, they can all be discussed. Celebrate what you have to bring forth.

What I took from Sunday re what Bishop said, was – We are all in this together, and hopefully we all move together in our circle in the same direction, the same number of steps. Whatever that direction is. If part of us moves one way, and others remain where they are, or move in opposite direction, the ‘circle’ elongates. Better to maintain the general ‘round table’ and move in same direction, generally intact. I know for me, personally, I can be gung ho about certain things, but as a family, I am in. If need be, I pursue what I got to pursue, share any that anyone else wants, but do not insist anyone else wants. I am good in the family, and off on my own at times if need be, without disrupting the fam.

Anonymous said...

God is love.

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

Well, well...you've all had a big day here, haven't you? OK, I want you all to settle down now and say your prayers.

Good night and God bless us every one!